Diethyl phthalate (DEP) detected in 24 of 252 personal care products, with highest concentrations in fragranced products

Researchers analyzed 252 cosmetic and personal care products purchased from the Canadian market for six phthalate esters using GC-MS. Diethyl phthalate (DEP) was the most frequently detected phthalate, found primarily in fragranced products including perfumes, deodorants, and hair products. The study estimated daily dermal exposure levels and found that while individual product exposures were generally low, aggregate exposure from multiple products could be significant. This study supported calls for mandatory phthalate disclosure on cosmetic labels.

Health Canada